You’ve worked really hard to achieve your ideal smile! You followed doctor’s orders, worn your Invisalign clear aligners as instructed, cared for your teeth, and now you have a megawatt smile. Congratulations on this achievement! However, to keep your smile in tip-top shape, keep these things in mind when continuing your new and improved oral care routine.
Retainers
When your orthodontist determines that you have completed your Invisalign treatment, you aren’t done. Many patients will require a retainer after Invisalign treatment, and this is the time your orthodontist will determine that. They will take new impressions of your teeth, and have new retainers made. In the grand scheme, you’ve spent a small window of time in those clear aligners, and you’re over the most intense part. Everyone’s situation is unique, so follow your doctor’s guidelines and use your retainer as directed. During this time, you should still avoid hard or crunchy foods as your teeth adjust.
It’s important to know why wearing your retainers is necessary. If you’re a teen, your bones are still “soft,” and that goes for the upper and lower jaws. Retainers will prevent the natural tendency for teeth to migrate back to their original positions. If you don’t wear your retainers as directed by your orthodontist, you will see this happen within weeks of completing your Invisalign treatment. Remember, the same physiological properties that allow your teeth to move during orthodontic treatment are always at work. You don’t want to undo all that hard work!
Brushing and Flossing
As you already know, brushing and flossing must be part of your daily oral care. And by this time, you’re a pro! Flossing prevents plague from building up and becoming tartar or calculus. This can eventually cause gingivitis and gum disease, so stay on course. Your gums may be sensitive for up to two weeks after your orthodontic treatment is completed. A warm salt-water rinse will help.
Your teeth sensitivity will last only a short time. Keep in mind that they have been protected by your Invisalign aligner trays, and are now fully exposed. Ask our orthodontist about using a toothpaste specifically for tooth sensitivity during this time. Also, if your teeth are stained in any way, ask about whitening treatments to consider.
Regular Dental Checkups
With your new smile, you will be more motivated than ever to keep it healthy! You still need to see your dentist regularly. Cleanings and X-rays will ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy so you can keep that bright smile for life. When cavities happen, and they do happen, they can be taken care of quickly.
If you have questions about orthodontic treatment, please give our office a call today!
Dr. Brian Thurman has spent his entire life enjoying all the beauty that California has to offer. A Fresno native, he still escapes to the ocean or the mountains whenever his busy schedule allows. Driven by his love for natural beauty, Dr. Thurman enjoys creating beautiful smiles and healthy bites that last a lifetime. He is proud to be the only Ivy League trained Orthodontist in the Fresno/Clovis area.